This refers to the news report, ‘Roadmap for direct Afghan government-Taliban talks adopted’ (February 7). It was announced in the third meeting of the Quadrilateral Coordination Group (QCG) that a meeting of the representatives of the Afghan government and Taliban groups could take place in a month’s time. An important development at the meeting was the adaptation of a roadmap (not given to the media) stipulating the stages and steps in the peace process.
Pakistan suggested that as many Taliban groups should be involved in the peace process without any preconditions. The presence in the QCG of China, which has remained neutral throughout the Afghan crisis, gives new confidence to the Taliban. The only thing required now is patience and perseverance on the part of the QCG and especially the Afghan government so that more and more moderate Taliban groups are included in the peace talks. The people of Afghanistan have suffered greatly because of war. Now is the time for giving them enduring peace.
Akbar Jan Marwat
Islamabad
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The third meeting of the Quadrilateral Coordination Group (QCG) on the Afghan peace and reconciliation process has provided a roadmap for direct talks between the Afghan government and the Taliban.
Pakistan’s role has been positive throughout the peace process. We feel the brunt of terrorism more than any other neighbour state in the region. Pakistan has urged all factions of the Afghan Taliban to join the peace talks. This will give a clear message to the Pakistani Taliban as well. However, it is suggested that those who stick to the path of violence and terrorism should be dealt with using an iron hand. Pakistan’s sole interest lies in cessation of violence and the establishment of durable peace in Afghanistan. Only a stable and peaceful Afghanistan will ensure a terror-free Pakistan.
Qurat-ul-Ain Fatima
Lahore
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